GREENVILLE -- The city will celebrate its Danish heritage in a big way this weekend with entertainment and ethnic food, including those oh-so-delicious aebleskivers.

The 44th annual Danish Festival, running Thursday through Sunday, is expected to draw 80,000 or more. That's a far cry from the first Danish Festival in 1965, a modest affair honoring Denmark immigrant John Green, who founded Greenville in 1844.

Coordinator Pam Jorae said the festival has grown to become a major attraction that's overseen by 23 directors and countless volunteers.